Card Systems Analyst – Nairobi | NCBA Bank 2025

Essential Job Details

Position Title: Card Systems Analyst
Job Requisition ID: Not specified
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Number of Vacancies: 1
Salary: Not disclosed
Category/Department: Information Technology, Technology & Operations Division
Unit: Card Systems Support
Reporting To: Senior Manager – Card Systems Support
Grade: Band 3
Application Deadline: August 7, 2025

Introduction

The Card Systems Analyst role at NCBA Bank in Nairobi offers an exciting career opportunity for a technically adept professional passionate about delivering exceptional support for card-related systems in the financial services sector. Situated within the Information Technology unit of the Technology & Operations Division, this position focuses on ensuring the reliability, security, and performance of ATMs, Cash Depositors, Teller Cash Recyclers, card management systems, and related applications. Ideal for Kenyan professionals with expertise in card systems support and a commitment to operational excellence, this role involves providing second- and third-level technical support, managing incidents, and driving new initiatives to enhance customer experiences.

As a Card Systems Analyst, you will play a pivotal role in maintaining NCBA’s card infrastructure, ensuring seamless service delivery for internal and external customers while adhering to stringent industry standards like PCI-DSS. With responsibilities spanning system optimization, change management, and business continuity, this role is perfect for individuals who thrive in a dynamic, high-stakes environment and are eager to advance their career in Nairobi’s thriving financial technology sector.

About NCBA Bank

NCBA Bank, formed through the merger of NIC Bank and Commercial Bank of Africa, is a leading financial institution in Kenya, headquartered in Nairobi. Offering a wide range of services, including retail banking, corporate banking, digital banking, and wealth management, NCBA serves customers across East Africa with a focus on innovation and customer-centricity. The bank leverages advanced technology to drive financial inclusion and operational efficiency, making it a key player in the region’s financial services landscape. NCBA fosters a dynamic, inclusive, and high-performance culture, guided by its core values: Driven, Open, Responsive, and Trusted. By joining NCBA, you will contribute to a forward-thinking organization dedicated to transforming financial services while advancing your professional growth in a supportive, collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

The Card Systems Analyst is responsible for ensuring the effective implementation, support, and optimization of NCBA’s card-related systems, including ATMs, card management systems, and card production hardware. The role involves incident management, change implementation, and collaboration with external vendors to maintain service excellence. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key responsibilities, organized by key accountabilities and weighted by importance:

1. Application Development (30% Weighting)

Provide second- and third-level technical and application support for ATMs, Cash Depositors, Teller Cash Recyclers, card management systems, card production systems, and related environments to ensure reliable service delivery.
Facilitate performance tuning, application upgrades, and system optimization for card systems to enhance user experience and customer service.
Document procedures and configurations to support consistent system administration and knowledge sharing.
Ensure optimal use of card systems by implementing enhancements that align with NCBA’s operational goals.
Collaborate with internal teams to integrate card systems with other banking platforms, such as T24, for seamless functionality.
Support the rollout of new initiatives and projects related to card systems, ensuring timely and effective delivery.

2. Incident and Problem Management (40% Weighting)

Resolve incidents causing service interruptions in the quickest and most effective manner, adhering to defined Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
Provide 24-hour on-call support for the ATM network and central card systems, ensuring rapid response to critical issues.
Analyze and troubleshoot issues reported by users, identifying root causes and implementing solutions or workarounds.
Document incident resolutions in a knowledgebase to support first-level support teams and improve future responses.
Monitor system performance to proactively identify potential issues, minimizing downtime and ensuring service reliability.
Escalate complex issues to system vendors or senior management, ensuring timely resolution and communication with stakeholders.

3. Change Management (10% Weighting)

Work closely with the Enterprise Project Management (EPM) Office, system vendors (e.g., TSYS, Tieto, VISA, MasterCard, EFT Corp, NCR), and other partners to implement system upgrades and change requests (CRs).
Ensure compliance with dynamic regulatory requirements and NCBA’s Change Management Policy during system updates.
Test and validate changes, upgrades, and patches to card systems to minimize risks and ensure operational stability.
Coordinate with external vendors to manage escalations and deliver solutions for complex technical issues.
Document change processes and outcomes to maintain audit trails and support compliance requirements.

4. IT Governance and Security (10% Weighting)

Ensure key system configurations generate and maintain audit trails for all changes in sensitive databases, adhering to security standards like PCI-DSS.
Implement and monitor security protocols to protect card systems and customer data from unauthorized access or breaches.
Support compliance with banking policies, processes, and external regulations related to card operations and data security.
Conduct regular reviews of system configurations to ensure alignment with NCBA’s IT governance framework.
Collaborate with the IT Security team to address vulnerabilities and enhance system protections.

5. Business Continuity Management (10% Weighting)

Identify areas with inadequate disaster recovery (DR) measures specific to card systems and propose mitigating actions.
Work with IT Infrastructure and the Senior Manager – Core Systems to implement DR solutions, ensuring business continuity during disruptions.
Test and document disaster recovery procedures for card systems to ensure readiness for potential failures.
Support the development of business continuity plans to maintain card operations under adverse conditions.
Monitor system resilience to ensure alignment with agreed availability targets and service levels.

6. Additional Duties

Propose improvements to card systems by identifying opportunities for optimization and efficiency.
Prioritize tasks and incidents to balance operational needs and customer expectations.
Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to deliver new initiatives and projects related to card systems.
Perform other duties as assigned to support the Technology & Operations Division’s objectives.

Decision-Making Authority

The Card Systems Analyst has operational decision-making authority, including:

Incident Resolution: Making decisions to resolve system issues without consulting the Senior Manager, followed by reporting to ensure business continuity.
Task Prioritization: Prioritizing tasks and incidents based on urgency and impact, managing resources for timely delivery.
Escalation Decisions: Determining when to escalate issues to vendors or senior management for resolution.
Change Proposals: Recommending system enhancements or configurations to improve performance and compliance.
Solution Selection: Choosing appropriate solutions or workarounds based on technical and operational requirements.

Work Cycle and Impact

Short-Term Planning (1 Month to 3 Months): Focusing on troubleshooting, incident resolution, system upgrades, and resource planning to ensure immediate service reliability.
Long-Term Impact (1 Year and Beyond): Contributing to system optimization, disaster recovery planning, and new initiative rollouts to enhance long-term operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Stakeholder Management

The Card Systems Analyst will liaise with key stakeholders to ensure successful outcomes:

Internal Stakeholders:
Card Operations/Card Authorization: Collaborating on card transaction issues and system support.
Cash Management & Personal Banking: Supporting card-related banking services.
Customer Experience: Addressing customer-facing issues to ensure high satisfaction.
NBV (New Business Ventures): Supporting new card-related initiatives and projects.
External Stakeholders:
Payment Networks: VISA, MasterCard, Interswitch, Rswitch, Kenswitch, Kenya Bankers (IPSL) for transaction processing and compliance.
Mobile Network Operators (MNOs): Safaricom, Airtel for mobile payment integrations.
System Vendors: TSYS, Tieto, EFT Corp, NCR for technical support and system upgrades.

Qualifications and Skills

To excel as a Card Systems Analyst at NCBA Bank, candidates must meet the following qualifications and skills, as outlined in the job description and aligned with industry standards:

Education:
Undergraduate degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field from a recognized university.
Experience:
Minimum 3 years of practical, proven experience in the installation, setup, support, and troubleshooting of Card Management Systems (CMS), preferably PRIME or ONLINE systems.
Experience supporting core banking systems, especially T24, is an added advantage.
Proven experience in supporting banking channels (e.g., mobile, internet, ATMs).
Demonstrated expertise in systems analysis, design, implementation, and support in a banking environment.
Knowledge of banking operations and business impact analysis.
Technical Competencies:
Technical understanding of Card Industry Standards and Operations, including PCI-DSS compliance.
Proficiency in SQL scripting for database queries and system support.
Experience with CMS applications (e.g., PRIME, ONLINE) across all layers.
Knowledge of operating systems, particularly Linux, UNIX, and Microsoft Operating Systems.
Understanding of Host Security Modules (HSMs) for secure transaction processing.
Technical skills to perform application architectural design, ensuring alignment with Enterprise Architecture standards.
Ability to manage system upgrades, performance tuning, and optimization for card systems.
Knowledge of banking policies and compliance standards to achieve required benchmarks.
Behavioral Competencies:
Interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with and manage expectations of internal and external stakeholders.
Self-empowerment to foster open communication, teamwork, and trust in a customer-service-oriented culture.
Team player with the ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.
Adaptability to changes in systems, procedures, and operational requirements.
Planning and organizing to structure work assignments for timely delivery.
Quality orientation to consistently achieve high standards in system support and service delivery.
Preferred Skills:
Experience with Temenos T24 and Arc-IB platforms.
Knowledge of payment network integrations (e.g., VISA, MasterCard).
Familiarity with vendor coordination for card system support and upgrades.

Company Culture and Values

NCBA Bank fosters a dynamic, inclusive, and customer-centric culture, guided by its core values:

Driven: Passionate about innovation, bold decision-making, and continuous improvement.
Open: Committed to candid, honest, and transparent interactions, embracing inclusivity and respect.
Responsive: Prioritizing customer interests, acting proactively, and delivering results efficiently.
Trusted: Upholding moral integrity, accountability, and reliability in all actions.

As a Card Systems Analyst, you will thrive in a high-performance environment that values resilience, teamwork, and customer-focused innovation. NCBA’s commitment to diversity and equal opportunity ensures a supportive workplace where employees are empowered to grow and contribute to the bank’s mission of transforming financial services in East Africa.

How to Apply

Apply now for the Card Systems Analyst position in Nairobi. To submit your application:

Prepare your detailed CV and cover letter clearly stating the job title (Card Systems Analyst) in the subject line.
Submit your application via the online portal: Apply for Card Systems Analyst.
Applications must be submitted by August 7, 2025.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Note: NCBA Bank is an equal opportunity employer and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. For assistance or accommodations due to a disability, contact the employer directly through the application portal.

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Role Overview

The Card Systems Analyst role at NCBA Bank in Nairobi is a critical position within the Information Technology unit, focusing on delivering second- and third-level support for card-related systems, including ATMs, Cash Depositors, Teller Cash Recyclers, and card management systems. This role involves incident resolution, system optimization, and project delivery to ensure seamless service for customers. Ideal for professionals with expertise in card systems and financial technology, this position offers a chance to contribute to NCBA’s digital transformation while advancing your career in Nairobi’s financial sector.

Why This Role Matters

As a Card Systems Analyst, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability, security, and performance of NCBA’s card infrastructure, directly impacting the bank’s ability to deliver seamless financial services. By resolving incidents, optimizing systems, and supporting new initiatives, you will enhance customer experiences and uphold NCBA’s reputation as a trusted financial institution. This role is both impactful and rewarding, offering the opportunity to make a significant difference in Nairobi’s competitive banking industry.

Program Context: Card Systems Support at NCBA

NCBA Bank’s Technology & Operations Division drives the bank’s digital transformation, leveraging advanced systems to deliver innovative financial services. The Card Systems Analyst role supports this mission by ensuring the stability and performance of card-related systems, including ATMs, card management systems, and production hardware. By adhering to standards like PCI-DSS and collaborating with payment networks (e.g., VISA, MasterCard), the role ensures high availability and compliance, aligning with NCBA’s commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

The Card Systems Analyst will engage in a variety of tasks to maintain system performance and support customer needs. Daily responsibilities include:

System Support: Providing second- and third-level support for ATMs, card management systems, and related applications.
Incident Resolution: Troubleshooting and resolving issues to minimize service disruptions.
Performance Tuning: Optimizing card systems for efficiency and user experience.
Change Implementation: Testing and deploying system upgrades, patches, and enhancements.
Vendor Coordination: Managing escalations and collaborating with vendors like TSYS and NCR.
Compliance: Ensuring adherence to PCI-DSS and banking regulations through secure configurations.
Disaster Recovery: Testing and documenting DR procedures to ensure business continuity.

Skills Development Opportunities

The Card Systems Analyst role offers significant opportunities for professional growth, including:

Enhancing Technical Expertise: Gaining advanced skills in card systems (e.g., PRIME, ONLINE) and PCI-DSS compliance.
Developing Support Skills: Mastering incident and problem management in a mission-critical environment.
Building Vendor Management: Coordinating with payment networks and system vendors for support and upgrades.
Strengthening Analytical Skills: Analyzing system issues and proposing optimization solutions.
Improving Compliance Knowledge: Deepening expertise in banking regulations and security standards.
Advancing Communication Skills: Engaging with stakeholders and explaining technical concepts clearly.

These opportunities position you for career advancement in IT support, systems analysis, or leadership roles within NCBA or the broader financial technology sector.

Working in Nairobi

Nairobi, Kenya’s capital and largest city, is a vibrant hub for finance and technology, hosting major banks and fintech companies. As a Card Systems Analyst at NCBA Bank, you will work on-site in Nairobi, engaging with diverse teams in a fast-paced, innovative environment. Nairobi’s role as a financial powerhouse, with institutions like the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), provides a dynamic backdrop for your career. With access to modern amenities and a thriving professional community, Nairobi offers an ideal setting for contributing to NCBA’s mission while advancing your professional growth.

Career Growth Potential

The Card Systems Analyst position is a gateway to advanced roles in financial technology, systems analysis, or IT leadership. By working with NCBA Bank, you will gain exposure to cutting-edge card systems, industry best practices, and cross-functional collaboration. Key career growth prospects include:

Senior Analyst Roles: Advancing to positions like Senior Card Systems Analyst or IT Manager.
IT Leadership: Moving into roles overseeing enterprise-wide IT operations.
Cross-Functional Opportunities: Transitioning to roles in digital banking, cybersecurity, or project management.
Professional Development: Accessing NCBA’s training programs and certifications (e.g., PCI-DSS, ITIL).
Regional Impact: Contributing to NCBA’s operations across East Africa, enhancing your regional expertise.

The role’s permanent nature and NCBA’s commitment to employee development ensure long-term career stability and growth.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

NCBA Bank is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of background. The bank upholds strict policies against discrimination and prioritizes accessibility for candidates with disabilities. As a Card Systems Analyst, you will contribute to a culture of respect, accountability, and excellence, aligning with NCBA’s core values of being Driven, Open, Responsive, and Trusted. The bank’s diverse workforce and emphasis on employee experience create a supportive environment for professional success.

Who Should Apply

The Card Systems Analyst role is ideal for professionals with an undergraduate degree in Computer Science or Information Technology, at least 3 years of experience in card system support (e.g., PRIME, ONLINE), and proficiency in SQL scripting. If you have a strong understanding of banking operations, PCI-DSS standards, and a passion for financial technology, this position offers a chance to thrive in Nairobi’s banking industry.

How to Stand Out as an Applicant

To increase your chances of being shortlisted for the Card Systems Analyst role:

Highlight Technical Expertise: Emphasize your experience with card systems (e.g., PRIME, ONLINE) and PCI-DSS compliance in your CV.
Showcase Relevant Experience: Detail your background in supporting banking channels (e.g., ATMs, mobile banking).
Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills: Provide examples of resolving complex system issues or optimizing performance.
Emphasize Vendor Coordination: Highlight experience working with payment networks or vendors like VISA and NCR.
Align with NCBA’s Values: Reflect your commitment to innovation, accountability, and customer-centricity in your cover letter.

Application Tips

When applying for the Card Systems Analyst position:

Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience in card systems, SQL scripting, and banking operations.
Write a Concise Cover Letter: Address your alignment with NCBA’s mission and your qualifications for the role.
Submit Early: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply before the deadline of August 7, 2025.
Ensure Accuracy: Verify that your CV and cover letter are correctly formatted and include relevant details.
Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss your experience with card systems, incident management, and compliance processes.

Why Work at NCBA Bank

Working as a Card Systems Analyst at NCBA Bank offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a leading financial institution’s digital transformation while advancing your career in Nairobi. Key benefits include:

Impactful Work: Ensure the reliability and security of critical card systems, enhancing customer experiences.
Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a permanent position with opportunities for professional development.
Dynamic Environment: Work in a diverse, high-performance team with a focus on innovation.
Career Advancement: Access pathways to senior IT roles or leadership positions.
Regional Influence: Contribute to NCBA’s operations across East Africa, shaping the region’s financial future.

By joining NCBA, you will play a critical role in delivering seamless card services, driving innovation, and building a rewarding career in a leading financial institution.

Additional Information

NCBA Bank is an equal opportunity employer committed to fair and transparent recruitment processes. Canvassing or presenting fake certificates will lead to disqualification, and no fees are charged for applications. Candidates requiring accommodations due to disabilities should contact the employer directly through the application portal. For more details, refer to the official application portal: Apply for Card Systems Analyst.

Conclusion

The Card Systems Analyst role at NCBA Bank in Nairobi is a transformative opportunity for professionals passionate about financial technology and card systems support. By joining NCBA, you will ensure the reliability of critical card infrastructure, drive operational excellence, and advance your career in a dynamic financial hub. With a focus on innovation, diversity, and customer-centricity, this role offers a chance to make a lasting impact in Nairobi’s banking industry. Apply today to become part of NCBA’s mission to transform financial services in East Africa.